October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: HEAL is Going Beyond Awareness to Action

October is the month the world turns pink—highlighting the ongoing fight against the most common cancer among women in the world. Thanks to tireless advocacy from survivors, clinicians, and researchers, breast cancer awareness is arguably the most recognizable health movement of the year.  

This global recognition has spurred extensive research, resulting in new treatments that have greatly improved survival rates. Early detection and advances in breast cancer care have contributed to a decline in mortality over the last 50 years. However, progress requires more than awareness; it must also address gaps in prevention, early detection, treatment access, and survival, particularly for women of color and under-resourced communities. 

Hard Truths

African-American women in the U.S. are about 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women, and Hispanic/Latina women face higher risks of late-stage diagnosis and unique barriers to timely care, including fewer local screening sites, language obstacles, and limited insurance options.  

This month, HEALing Community Health is prioritizing awareness and action:

• Early detection that’s truly accessible: Only 66% of breast cancer cases are identified at a localized, more treatable stage. We assist patients in finding free or low-cost mammogram options—crucial since early diagnosis can increase the five-year survival rate to 99%. 
• Free and low-cost mammograms: Both women and men can develop breast cancer (about 2,800 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed in 2025). If you need help, call us for a referral. 
• Lowering risk through lifestyle: Evidence-based actions—like maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, limiting alcohol, and not smoking—can reduce breast cancer risk. 
• Myth-busting: Some believe only women get breast cancer or that a family history is needed; in fact, 85% of cases occur in women with no family history. 
• Support after diagnosis: We guide newly diagnosed patients through the next steps, treatment options, and connect them with support networks, resources and emotional support. 

Beyond the statistics, real lives are at stake.

African American women are more likely to develop aggressive subtypes, such as triple-negative breast cancer, and face circumstances — like lack of paid time off or transportation — that can make it challenging to get a mammogram. Later-stage diagnosis can mean more aggressive treatment, which impacts everyone in the family. Effective community solutions include mobile mammography units, patient navigation programs, and trusted information delivered by local faith or cultural leaders. 

Screening Recommendations: a clear breakdown

• Average risk: Many groups recommend starting mammograms at age 40; regular screening mammography starting at age 40 has been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality in average-risk women. Discuss with your clinician the interval that best suits your risk and values. 
• Higher risk (any of these may place you here): Strong family history, a known gene variant (BRCA1/2 and others), prior chest radiation at a young age, or very dense breasts. You may need earlier screening (sometimes starting at 25–30), annual mammograms plus breast MRI, and genetic counseling. 
• Other risk factors: late menopause, increasing age, hormonal therapy-estrogen and progesterone, alcohol use, smoking, obesity, starting menses at an early age, and never having a child. 

Know your normal

Most cancers are found on screening, but be breast aware: report new lumps, skin changes, dimpling, nipple discharge, a new “pulling” sensation, or redness/warmth that doesn’t improve. Note: Inflammatory breast cancer may not form a lump. 

What if…

If you or a loved one receives a positive diagnosis, you’re not alone. HEAL is here to support you after a cancer diagnosis, through treatment, and beyond. Our community health worker is a licensed social worker who proactively connects you with the resources you need, when you need them. From navigating services to emotional support, we’re by your side. Cancer can be overwhelming. HEAL’s behavioral health team offers compassionate, step-by-step support to reduce stress and help you focus on what matters most: healing. 

Action steps you can take now: 

• Schedule an appointment at HEALing Community Health for an exam and a referral for a screening mammogram if you’re due. 
• If cost is a barrier, HEAL will share referrals to free or low-cost mammograms. 
• Learn your family history and discuss risk with your doctor. 
• Stay active, eat well, limit your alcohol consumption, and avoid tobacco products. 
• Get screened and encourage others to do the same.  
• HEAL shares actionable breast cancer information each week in October, so stay tuned! 

Atlanta Medical Center offers free screening for different cancers in different months, such as skin cancer screenings in May, prostate screenings in September, and mammograms in October. Click here for more information.  

Northside Hospital has similar offerings at different locations across town during the months of May and September, specifically. Northside also offers SCREEN Atlanta, a mobile mammography program, which can be reached at 404-851-6070. Click here for more information. 

Georgia Cancer Foundation’s Low-Cost Mammogram Program offers screening services to unemployed, uninsured, and underinsured women. Click here for more information, or call 770-640-5529. 

Options for Free Mammograms in Atlanta, Georgia  

Atlanta offers several resources for women to access free mammograms:  

Government Programs:  

• National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP): Provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings for women who meet eligibility requirements.  
• Georgia Department of Public Health Cancer Early Detection Program: Offers free mammograms to eligible Georgia residents.  

Non-Profit Organizations:  

• Susan G. Komen Atlanta: Provides free mammograms through their “Komen Race for the Cure” events and other programs. 
• American Cancer Society: Offers free mammograms through their “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” events and patient assistance programs.  
• YWCA of Atlanta: Offers free mammograms through their “EncorePlus” program.  

Healthcare Providers:  

• Grady Health System: Provides free mammograms through their “Breast Cancer Screening Program.” 
• Wellstar Health System: Offers free mammograms through their “Free Mammogram Day” events. 
• Atlanta Medical Center: May offer free mammograms through their patient assistance programs. 

Other Resources:  

Planned Parenthood:  

Some Planned Parenthood health centers in Atlanta may offer low-cost mammograms.  

As part of observances of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and as part of its ongoing commitment to encourage early detection and treatment, the Fulton County Board of Health will offer free breast cancer screenings over a two-day period at two regional health centers. The screenings will take place on October 17 and 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the following locations:

College Park (Willie J. Freeman) Regional Health Center – October 17
1920 John Wesley Avenue
College Park, Georgia 30337

North Fulton Regional Health Center – October 19
3155 Royal Drive
Alpharetta, GA 30022

For more information about breast cancer screenings, contact the Fulton County Board of Health at 404-612-1649. 

Contact your local health department for information about free mammogram programs.  

Tips: 

• Call or visit healthcare providers and organizations in advance to inquire about availability and eligibility.  
• Bring your ID and insurance information, if applicable.  
• Some programs may require an appointment.  
• Consider searching online for “free mammograms Atlanta” to find additional resources.